Why Are My Pipes Banging? Understanding Water Hammer and What You Can Do About It

At 1300 FINDLEAK, we often receive calls from customers hearing strange banging, vibrating, or pounding sounds in their plumbing when taps are turned on or off. These unsettling noises are usually caused by a common but often misunderstood issue known as water hammer, or more technically, hydraulic shock.

Water hammer occurs when there's a sudden change in water flow, such as when a tap or valve is quickly opened or closed. This creates a surge in pressure that causes pipes to vibrate, producing those loud and sometimes alarming noises. In some cases, a vacuum can form behind the moving water, amplifying the shockwave as it travels through your plumbing system.

This pressure shock can happen anywhere in your home’s pipework — and surprisingly, the noise may not originate where you think. A faulty kitchen mixer downstairs can create vibrations that are heard in an upstairs bedroom or hallway. Over time, wear and tear on tap valves can also contribute, with internal components “jumping” and increasing the pressure within the system.

So what can you do about it?

If you're experiencing these noises, it’s important not to ignore them. Consistent water hammer can damage your plumbing over time. A licensed plumber can inspect your taps, valves, and pipework to identify the source and recommend solutions such as installing water hammer arrestors or repairing worn fixtures.

If you're not sure where to start, contact 1300 FINDLEAK — we’ll help get to the bottom of it.